Jersey protected zone could grow to help lobster stocks

Jersey is considering expanding a protected fishing zone around Les Écréhous to help reverse declining lobster catches. Environment Minister Mary Le Hegarat has submitted proposals to enlarge the existing zone, located about six miles (10km) north-east of the island. The area currently bans the use of “highly effective” parlour pots. Those pots differ from traditional inkwell designs by having two or more compartments. The move targets mounting pressure on Jersey’s lobster fishery, where commercial landings have fallen steadily since 2015.